Did you know March is Music Therapy Awareness Month? This month highlights the importance of music therapy and helps to raise awareness about the necessary work of certified music therapist. Music therapy uses the immense power of music to heal us, support our mental wellbeing, and provide a place of solace to anyone in need. Music and art have the ability to transform lives, and this unique form of therapy is no exception. 

At the RCA, we take pride in providing music-based wellness programs such as Sing for the Soul, generously supported by Music Heals Charitable Foundation, and Beyond the Music to members of our community. 

We are extremely grateful for Music Heals and their support which funds Sing for the Soul, in collaboration with Soul Sounds Music Therapy. This program has provided inclusive, community-based singing sessions open to anyone - creating a safe and supportive space for emotional expression, social connection, and well-being. As a non-profit, these funds are crucial to ensure programs like this can continue to operate.  

Through this support, we are fostering meaningful connections and providing a vital resource for those who need it most, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity, mental health, and community well-being.  

Recently, the RCA welcomed Sound Soul Music Therapy as a tenant in our space, further enriching our commitment to offering diverse and impactful music therapy services. We sat down with Kayla Turnbull, founder of Soul Sounds Music Therapy, to learn more about what she does and the importance of music therapy options.  

 “My journey with Soul Sounds began long before the practice itself,” explains Kayla. “As a child, I experienced the transformative power of music while navigating personal health challenges. From an early age, I understood how deeply music could support and heal, and I felt a strong desire to share that gift with others. After completing my Bachelor of Music Therapy degree, I knew I wanted to return to my roots in the Okanagan and start a music therapy practice.” 

In 2019, Soul Sounds Music Therapy was born. Since 2020, Kayla has grown an amazing team who are committed to creating an environment where every person feels safe, accepted, and recognized exactly as they are. 

On the importance of programs like Sing for the Soul, Kayla reiterated the sense of joy and connection this form of expression can bring participants. Sing for the Soul is a fun, supportive space where everyone is welcome, with no prior musical experience required. This is a group for anyone who wants to connect with others and explore the joy of singing. 

“These programs provide a safe space for creative self-expression, helping individuals communicate in ways that words alone can’t. In today’s fast-paced world, these programs offer a unique opportunity for self-care, helping us slow down, reconnect with ourselves and others, and nurture our social-emotional well-being.” 

“My favorite part is the people I get to meet. It’s an honour to connect with others in such a unique and meaningful way.” 

“We’re so excited to have a studio at the RCA!” Says Kayla. “It’s been a dream of mine for a while, and I believe it will strengthen our community bonds, expand our programming, and inspire us to spread the joy of music therapy to even more people.” 

The RCA is delighted to witness the inspiring success stories emerging from this program. Recently, we heard from Miranda, a participant whose journey is a testament to the transformative impact of music therapy. 

At the Rotary Centre for the Arts, a music therapy group called Sing for the Soul quickly became a place of solace, warmth, and community during the winter months, a time that many find especially challenging. The group offers a unique space to drop in and sing together without any prior music experience needed, all without any pressure or commitment. A place to sing out the joys, hardships, grief, milestones and transitions of life. In the first session, Miranda shared that she was navigating a significant personal transition in her life and had joined the group with the hope of reclaiming her voice as part of her identity again.   

Miranda joined the Sing for the Soul music therapy group at the Rotary Centre for the Arts during a difficult life transition. As winter set in, she was seeking a space to reconnect with herself and reclaim her voice, both literally and figuratively. She hoped that through music, she could rediscover a sense of identity and belonging.  

Guided by music therapists Kayla Turnbull and Emily, Miranda explored a diverse selection of songs from the group’s curated Songbook, often introducing new pieces that resonated deeply with her journey. From soothing harmonies like Oh River by MaMuse to lighthearted, playful tunes, her song choices reflected her evolving emotions. As Miranda found the courage to share her voice, she unknowingly inspired others to do the same. Her vulnerability sparked a ripple effect of confidence and connection, encouraging fellow participants to embrace their own self-expression through music.  

With a new series beginning in April, Miranda and other participants will continue their journey of healing through music, finding strength, community, and joy in every note.  

Sing for the Soul runs each Tuesday from April 1 to June 17, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM and is open to anyone 13 and up. Join us and experience the immense power of music, singing, and togetherness. Register here.  

---

Testimonials 

"So glad I had the opportunity to find this program! Well presented. I found that I was able to feel happy singing again." - Anonymous

"I have been in choirs my whole life and loved it, but this group is so different and so unique. I feel so comfortable and safe and have so much fun every week. It is the one thing I look forward to most each week. The music therapists that facilitate it always have smiles and accommodate all kinds of songs for us, even theatrical ones. I can't imagine spending my Thursday doing anything else, so thank you for helping me get my voice back." - Anonymous

"The Sing for the Soul group was a balm for my aching heart this winter. I was going through a tough time and I know that singing makes me feel better. When I joined the group, I couldn't believe how whole and happy I felt after our one-hour sessions. The camaraderie among the group, facilitated by Emily and Kayla was nourishing and heart-felt. The choice of songs and extra percussion instruments available were very enjoyable. Kayla & Emily's strong leadership in facilitating the group in a caring and compassionate way was the thread that wove us all together into a magical, musical tapestry. Each evening was a delight. I really enjoyed the "round" type songs that we used for warmups. It is so nice to hear all the voices creating harmony that way. I also appreciated that we could suggest songs and were offered to sing solos if we wished. I liked how Emily & Kayla backed us up with guitar and piano and taught us warm up exercises for our voices. Thank you, Kayla & Emily, from the bottom of my heart." - Miranda